Key Takeaways ForSight Robotics completed the first fully robot-assisted cataract surgery in a human using its JASPER Platform The procedure was performed without general anesthesia and covered the entire surgery The technology aims to expand global access to cataract surgery, addressing a massive unmet need driven by surgeon shortages and growing patient demand ForSight Robotics announced the successful completion of the world’s first fully robot-assisted cataract surgery performed on a human patient using its proprietary JASPER Platform. The groundbreaking procedure was carried out by Alexey Rapoport, MD, with Robert Edward T. Ang, MD, of the Asian Eye Institute in Manila serving as Principal Investigator. Unlike earlier robotic-assisted ophthalmic procedures—which were limited to partial steps and often required general anesthesia—this surgery was completed from start to finish using robotic assistance without general anesthesia, aligning with modern cataract surgery standards. “This is a defining moment for ophthalmic surgery and the future of global healthcare,” said Joseph Nathan, MD, co-founder, president, and chief medical officer of ForSight Robotics. “With the first successful full robotic cataract procedure in a human patient, this achievement opens the door to dramatically expanding access to sight-restoring surgery for millions around the world.” The JASPER Platform, previously known as the ORYOM platform, is designed to replicate and enhance the workflow of conventional cataract surgery. It supports surgeons through every stage of the procedure, integrating advanced imaging, motion scaling, and precision controls aimed at reducing fatigue and improving consistency across surgeries. By enabling greater dexterity and stability, the system allows surgeons and robotic technology to work in tandem, potentially improving patient outcomes while also addressing occupational health challenges faced by ophthalmologists. Many eye surgeons experience musculoskeletal strain due to prolonged, awkward positioning during microsurgical procedures—a burden the platform aims to alleviate. “Performing the first-in-human cataract surgery with the JASPER Platform has been the highlight of my career,” said Dr. Rapoport. “Something we could only dream about a few years ago is now a reality. Standing in the operating room, it was clear we were witnessing the future of eye surgery.” The innovation comes at a critical time. An estimated 600 million people worldwide require cataract surgery, yet only about 30 million procedures are performed annually. A shortage of trained surgeons, coupled with the physical demands of the procedure, has contributed to a growing global health gap. ForSight Robotics aims to address this disparity by scaling access to high-quality surgical care, particularly in underserved regions. Following its Series B funding round in 2025 and this first-in-human success, the company plans to move forward with clinical validation and regulatory submissions. These next steps are expected to bring the JASPER Platform closer to broader clinical adoption. “This milestone represents more than a technical achievement,” said Dr. Fred Moll, founder of Intuitive Surgical and Auris Health, as well as a ForSight Robotics investor and board member. “ForSight Robotics is re-envisioning how eye surgery is done and opening the door to greater standardization across procedures, improved precision, and broader access to vision-saving care.”
